Reimagine River Grove

We held our first steering committee on June 27th. During the meeting, CMAP presented the Existing Conditions Report and received general questions and comments. They included safety concerns at the intersections of Fullerton & First, a desire for more connectivity through the Forest Preserves between the East and West sides of River Grove, concerns about housing affordability, and a desire to make River Grove a destination rather than people zooming through.

Lastly, the committee drafted their guidelines and shared values. Shared values are important because they guide the work and efforts of the committee and determine how members interact with each other.

At CMAP, we believe that transparency is essential to the planning process. Recently, we've formed the steering committee for River Grove's Comprehensive Plan and wanted to introduce them! The steering committee is made up of River Grove residents passionate about the guiding the direction of River Grove's growth and future!

Kriss Mazza

My name is Kris Mazza and I have lived in River Grove 35 years. I served on the Rhodes School Board as well as the River Grove Library Board (currently serving). I joined the steering committee because I think it is important both to me as a resident and library board member. I am interested in the input of residents and what things they would like addressed. There have been many changes in town over the years (so many new developments) I think it is important to have a plan.

Danielle Villalpando

Hello, I am Danielle Villalpando, and I am a resident of River Grove. I have lived in River Grove for the past eight years and love the Village. I was happy to join the committee to help share my thoughts and ideas on how to continue to keep River Grove a great place to live. I think it is wonderful that the thoughts and opinions of the residents is being put into consideration. I plan to live here for years to come and want nothing but the best for all residence of the community.

Kurt Kuras

My name is Kurt Kuras, and I have lived in River Grove since 1971. I am a former School Board member and Lion’s Club member. I joined the steering committee to be involved and hopefully help. My hope for the steering committee is that we create a safer environment, implement speedbumps and focus more on park and school safety.

Tina Lilly

My name is Tina Lilly, my connection to River Grove is not only am I a long-time resident of 27 years, but my husband and his family grew up in River Grove, attended Rhodes Elementary, and continued to Holy Cross and Mother Guerin High School which is also located in River Grove. My husband and my children have always supported the local events in the village, and at St. Cyprian’s Parish; which is a staple in River Grove, we’ve always volunteered our time as needed and continue to do so today.

My husband and I have raised three children in River Grove and one of my children is now a current homeowner in River Grove too! Even my career has led me to stay in River Grove, I’ve been working in River Grove at Triton College and Guerin Prep High School for over 10 years collectively.

Being a part of this steering committee is important to me and my family and to the young children growing up in River Grove. I grew up on the West Side of Chicago, I didn’t have the type of “neighborhood family” that River Grove has, or as the locals call it growing up in “Mayberry”. River Grove is unique, we’re five minutes from Chicago’s City limits.

Those that grow up in River Grove either stay in River Grove and raise their family, some may have moved but made their way back to River Grove. River Grove has that effect, you may leave for some time, but it’s always good to come home.

My family has been very blessed to have such a great friendly neighborhood to grow up in, my children have created lifelong friends and as a parent raising children in River Grove, we had a great “Parent Connection” and always helped each other out no matter what. I would like these types of traditions and experiences to carry on with the next generation coming in, new families are moving in I want them to know how special River Gove is and to keep the spirit of River Grove alive.

Benjamin Ramirez

My name is Benjamin E. Ramirez. I consider myself to be a nearly lifelong resident of River Grove since my family moved here 50 years ago. I attended and graduated from local elementary schools. Further education would take me to Chicago, downstate and eventually out-of-state. Though I spent time away, home was always my parent’s house in River Grove. Eventually, I would return to reside in that house in 2016 together with my wife Sandra and our two daughters, Melissa and Kassady. Both of our daughters completed elementary school at Rhodes. During this time, I served on the Rhodes School Board for 4 years total, serving on the Building Committee and as Board Secretary for one year. Last year, I had the opportunity to serve a 1 year appointment as Village Trustee. This past April, I succeeded in winning election to a 4 year term as Village Trustee. Hence, in addition to being a resident and parent, as a new trustee I wanted to be involved with formulating the CMAP Strategic Plan that will impact the future of community. I have a great deal of regard for our little hamlet on the river. I wish to see our Village remain a desirable and safe place for families, provide an environment that foster values in children such as concern for others and the environment, and cultivates a childhood filled with cherished memories and traditions.

Jennifer Courington

I have been a proud resident of River Grove for over 20 years, during which time I've had the privilege of witnessing our community's growth and development.

Joining the Steering Committee is a natural extension of my commitment to River Grove's progress. I firmly believe that a community thrives when its members actively engage in shaping its future. The Steering Committee's dedication to enhancing our town's infrastructure, fostering local businesses, and preserving our natural heritage aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I have a vested interest in making RG the best it can be since I have lived here a long time and am not planning on moving for the foreseeable future. The fact that I typically leave RG to shop, go out to eat and seek entertainment isn't ideal for my lifestyle. It would be amazing to have a more vibrant town like Oak Park, La Grange or Elmhurst. In essence, my journey with the Steering Committee is driven by a deep-rooted love for River Grove and a strong desire to contribute positively to its ongoing narrative of growth. I am excited to work hand in hand with fellow committee members and our community to shape a vibrant future for River Grove.

My hope for the Steering Committee is that it becomes a dynamic platform for meaningful collaboration. By bringing together diverse voices, ideas, and expertise, we can devise innovative solutions to our community's challenges. I envision a River Grove where thoughtful urban planning coexists harmoniously with our green spaces, creating a sustainable environment for current and future generations. Additionally, I look forward to the Steering Committee spearheading initiatives that encourage civic participation and inclusivity. As we work to improve local services, promote cultural events, and support education, I believe we will strengthen the bonds that make River Grove not just a place to live, but a true home for all of us.

Note: This list may be updated in the near future